Are you considering switching to a digital set of dentures?
Are you tired of dealing with metal or plastic dentures? Has having them been a lifelong struggle? Do you think that a more modern approach to dentures might be right for you?
Who hasn’t been tempted to give up their traditional set of dentures and switch over to a digital version? But how do they really compare? Is it really better to go digital?
If you have any of these questions, you’ve come to the right place general dentistry. This guide will break down all you need to know about having traditional versus digital dentures. Read on!
Digital Versus Traditional
Digital dentures are made using advanced computer technology. It allows dentists to design custom-fit dentures in a fraction of the traditional time. It involves taking a digital scan of the patient’s mouth, jaw, and teeth and using the scan to develop the dentures.
Traditional dentures also involve taking a mold of the patient’s mouth. This usually requires several visits to the dentist and a long wait time for the dentures to be manufactured.
In comparison, digital dentures are designed and manufactured in a fraction of the time, and often in one visit. It reduces the cost and removes any discomfort associated with traditional dentures. While some traditional dental practices may still use traditional dentures, the advancements in digital denture technology have made the process much quicker and more effective.
Benefits of Digital Dentures over Traditional
Digital dentures offer a number of benefits over traditional dentures. Below are some of those benefits.
Designed Using Advanced 3D Scanning
Digital dentures are designed using advanced 3D scanning and design software. It creates a more precise and accurate fit than traditional dentures. This type of technology allows dentists to digitally design the denture to the patient’s exact measurements.
It results in a better, more natural fit. This is one of the denture options that are created in shorter amounts of time. Its accuracy also means a greater wearability and a more natural look and feel.
It is constructed from prescribed materials and precise design. It creates a strong internal structure, helping them stand the test of time. This type of design offers added support and helps avoid noticeable shrinking for a longer period of time than in comparison to traditional dentures.
Easier to Add or Remove Features
Digital dentures offer more precise and less invasive methods to insert or extract features from existing dentures. They are made using CAD-CAM technology. It enables a clinician to quickly and accurately fit a digital denture to a patient.
This streamlined process removes the need for complex molds. In contrast, traditional dentures require considerable time, effort, and expertise to insert or remove features. This can take weeks or months versus mere days for digital dentures.
Lighter and Aesthetically Pleasing
Digital dentures are considerably lighter and aesthetically pleasing when compared to traditional dentures. With them, they require a metal framework along the borders to strengthen the denture and layers of acrylic for cosmetic effect.
They are considered ‘metal-free’ dentures due to not requiring the internal metal framework. It is because the material has built-in strength. It also allows for thinner, delicate-looking dentures to create an extremely pleasing look.
In terms of weight, they are around 30-50% lighter than a traditional denture. This can be a great benefit for people with significant jawbone tissue loss or Osteonecrosis, as the dentures won’t cause as much strain or discomfort. They also don’t require any adjustments, which is another benefit.
This great combination of lighter weight and aesthetically pleasing dentures allows people to feel more comfortable and confident in their smiles.
Stronger
Digital dentures are drastically stronger and more reliable. This is due to advancements in technology and materials used in fabrication. It uses improved dental adhesives that help to keep the denture more securely in place.
They are much more durable and can last for several years with basic maintenance. As a result, when paired with expert dental care and treatments, digital dentures are an excellent option for anyone looking for a long-term and comfortable solution to tooth loss.
Disadvantages of Digital Dentures
Unfortunately, digital dentures present a few drawbacks. Below are a few of them.
Costly
Digital dentures offer a much more expensive option than traditional dentures. This is due to the high cost of technology used to design, create, and fit them. There are lots of technologies used with digital dentures that enable dentists to replicate a patient’s anatomy.
While digital dentures may cost more upfront than traditional ones, they reap long-term benefits in both aesthetics and longevity that more than make up for the costly investment.
Technology and Materials Used are Not Well Known
One disadvantage of digital dentures is that the technology and materials used are not as well known and understood as traditional dentures. There are still questions about how the technology will hold up over time. They require specialized tools and software, making it difficult to regulate the quality.
Adjustments and repairs may require specialty tools or software. There is less flexibility in the design of digital dentures, which tend to have more of a one-size-fits-all approach. Overall, both digital and traditional dentures have their advantages and disadvantages, with the deciding factor being based on individual needs.
They Lack the Customization
The lack of customization when compared to traditional dentures can be a concern. Traditional dentures are custom-made from a mold of the patient’s mouth. It comes with the same look and feel but may lack the exact customization feature that traditional dentures have.
They are a great option, providing a more accessible choice for patients looking for a tooth replacement and proper dental care. However, they may lack the same level of customization as traditional dentures.
All that being said, the advantages of digital dentures outweigh the disadvantages due to several improvements over traditional dentures.
Digital Dentures Compare to Traditional Dentures: What You Must Know
Digital dentures offer a much-improved fit, greater efficiency, and increased comfort for the patient over traditional dentures. That makes them a great choice.
Talk to your dentist today to see if digital dentures are right for you!
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